Unit 6 Discussion: Great Zimbabwe and Contemporary Decolonization in Africa
This discussion aligns with Learning Outcomes 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, and 11.
Through the colonial period, controversy surrounded the archeological site at Great Zimbabwe. From the 1890s to the 1930s, famed European archaeologists debated who had built Great Zimbabwe and the dates of its construction. With the decolonization of Africa in the late twentieth century, scholars rejected earlier colonial narratives to successfully reclaim the site as a grand Medieval African civilization. With the site’s African origins settled, current conversations have turned to who should control access to the site’s ruins and who should own its artifacts. This discussion examines these scholarly conversations about Great Zimbabwe’s heritage.
Tasks:
First, read each of the following documents:
Colonial-era sources:
1.
2.
3.
4.
More recent scholarship:
5.
6.
7.
8.
Using the primary sources (e.g., archaeological findings, trade artifacts, oral histories) and secondary sources (e.g., scholarly articles, historical analyses) provided, evaluate how the history of Great Zimbabwe has been reinterpreted in the context of decolonization efforts in Africa. How do these reinterpretations challenge colonial narratives and contribute to a broader understanding of African history and identity?
Consider the ongoing decolonization movements across Africa, focusing on how they address issues of historical representation, cultural heritage, and national identity. Compare these efforts to the reinterpretation of Great Zimbabwe’s history. Discuss specific examples of contemporary decolonization initiatives in Africa, such as the repatriation of cultural artifacts, the revision of educational curricula, or the preservation of indigenous languages. How do these initiatives reflect similar themes of reclaiming and redefining historical narratives?
After making your initial post, respond to at least two of your classmates’ posts.
Expectations and Criteria for Success:
- Your discussion post should answer all the questions above with specific examples and details from the assigned sources.
- Posts should be a minimum of 250 words.
- Please note that you will not be able to access your classmates’ posts until you yourself have posted. After your initial post, you should respond to at least two classmates’ posts. Successful replies will refer to course materials and contribute to new points of discussion and be between 2-4 sentences.
Requirements: 250
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